BOSTON — The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) announced the launch of a new scholarship program that aims to support emerging leaders of the Commonwealth to continue their education journey to leadership and economic empowerment.

The MCSW mission is to provide a permanent, effective voice for women and girls across Massachusetts and to innovatively promote and empower the women of the Commonwealth. Designed to support woman-identifying students already enrolled in a Massachusetts public higher-education institution, scholarships will be available to help individuals complete their degree.

“This new program seeks to provide funding for women students, who may not be able to access scholarship and grant funding typically available to more traditional students, to continue their education and path to economic success,” said MCSW State Commissioner Denella Clark, who chairs the new scholarship committee.

The MCSW will award five individuals with scholarships of $5,000 each for the 2024-25 academic year. Applicants must complete the online application and submit supporting materials no later than March 1. Applicants must currently be enrolled in an accredited degree or certificate program in Massachusetts and have completed at least one year toward their degree. The funds from this scholarship will go toward tuition, fees, books, and related supplies or equipment for study. All funds awarded are provided by the MCSW trust fund. Click here to learn more and apply.

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) is slated to host its annual Advocacy Day on Wednesday, May 31 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each May, the commission welcomes hundreds of community activists to the State House to rally behind legislation that increases women’s access to opportunities and equality.

“Advocacy Day has always been a very powerful day for the state and regional commissions,” MCSW Chairwoman Sarah Glenn-Smith said. “It’s a chance to come together and not only really be heard, but be seen, to speak with legislators about issues that affect us, our families, and our community. We hope that you join us to learn about the legislative progress, our legislative priorities, and how we can move the needle for women across the Commonwealth together.”

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, and will be the first in-person Advocacy Day in more than three years. This day comes on the heels of the MCSW announcing its 2023-24 policy priorities for the 193rd legislative session (click here). At the event, the commission will also discuss key findings from public hearings conducted with women throughout the past year across the Commonwealth.

For more information, contact MCSW at (617) 626-6520 or [email protected]. Click here to register here directly.